Check out the best winter events in the Carolinas!
Winter in the Carolinas isn’t just about the chill—it’s the perfect time to enjoy vibrant festivals and unique events that warm the soul. From ice sculpting in Maggie Valley to jazz in Wilmington, these winter happenings showcase the best of Southern culture and hospitality. Whether you're craving seafood at the Lowcountry Oyster Festival or immersing yourself in wildlife at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, there's something for everyone. Bundle up and dive into the season’s most exciting celebrations across the Carolinas—you won’t want to miss these unforgettable winter adventures!
NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend
January 30–February 2, 2025
Haywood County, NC
Experience winter fun at the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend in Haywood County! The festival features live ice carving, frosty games, and thrilling events like the Penguins in the Pool race in Maggie Valley. Skate in Canton, watch the Cataloochee Ski Torch Run, and enjoy a jazzy concert at HART Theatre. Whether you’re into winter sports, arts, or family fun, this cool weekend offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Candle Making Experience
Weekly on Saturdays
Greenville, SC (Upstate)
Unleash your creativity in the Candle Making Experience every Saturday in Greenville. This hands-on workshop lets you craft personalized candles with a range of scents, and you get to take home your creations. It’s a relaxing, fun activity that’s perfect for a weekend outing, whether you’re new to candle making or a seasoned pro. Enjoy the calm atmosphere while crafting a unique piece to light up your home.
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
February 2, 2025
Charleston County, SC (Lowcountry)
Dive into the 41st Annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation, the world’s largest oyster festival! Feast on over 50,000 pounds of oysters, enjoy live music, and compete in the oyster-eating contest. Kids can have fun at the Pluff-a-Palooza play area, and oyster lovers can take part in the oyster shucking contest. It’s a day filled with Southern flavors, fun, and festive energy!
Gorge yourself on delicous fresh oysters at the Lowcountry Oyster Festival!
45th Annual NC Jazz Festival
February 6-8, 2025
Wilmington, NC (Coast)
Celebrate the smooth sounds of jazz at the 45th Annual NC Jazz Festival in Wilmington. Enjoy three nights of incredible live music, with performances from world-class jazz musicians at Hotel Ballast. The festival honors the genre's rich history with tributes, all-star performances, and intimate settings that make every note feel personal. A must-attend for any jazz fan!
Blueberry Pancake Breakfast
February 8, 2025
Burgaw, NC (Coast)
Enjoy a stack of fresh blueberry pancakes at the annual fundraiser in Burgaw. The event supports the NC Blueberry Festival Association Scholarship Program and offers a chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast while giving back to the community. It’s a wonderful way to start the day with family and friends while supporting local education initiatives.
Yamato – Drummers of Japan
February 11, 2025
Aiken, SC (Midlands)
Feel the rhythm at Yamato – Drummers of Japan in Aiken. This high-energy performance blends traditional Japanese drumming with vibrant choreography, creating an unforgettable experience. Held at the Etherredge Center, the show showcases the art of taiko drumming in a visually and sonically powerful display. It’s a must-see for music and culture lovers alike!
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
February 14-16, 2025
Charleston, SC
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) in Charleston. This weekend-long event features wildlife art, sporting demonstrations, and live wildlife shows. You can watch falconry displays, attend art exhibits, and enjoy after-hours events. SEWE brings together nature lovers and artists to celebrate the wild beauty of the Southeast.
Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival
February 17-23, 2025
Hilton Head, SC (Lowcountry)
Taste the freshest seafood at the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival! Running from February 17-23, this week-long celebration features cooking demos, chef’s dinners, and plenty of fresh seafood to enjoy. With live music, cultural events, and local vendors, it’s a great way to experience Hilton Head’s vibrant food scene and Southern hospitality.
Enjoy mouthwatering fresh seafood!
History for Lunch
February 19, 2025
Elizabeth City, NC
Join the Museum of the Albemarle for History for Lunch, a talk by Dr. Kathleen DuVal on North Carolina’s role in the American Revolution. Dr. DuVal will discuss pivotal moments such as the Edenton Tea Party and Battle of Guilford Courthouse, offering fresh insights into the state’s revolutionary past. It’s a great way to combine learning and lunch!
Mardi Gras By The Sea Parade & Festival
February 22, 2025
Oak Island, NC
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Oak Island with a festive parade and family-friendly festival! The parade kicks off at 11 AM, followed by food vendors, live music, crafts, and a special kids’ zone. The festival brings the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras to the coast with plenty of fun for all ages.
Fearrington Folk Art Show
February 22-23, 2025
Pittsboro, NC
Discover one-of-a-kind artwork at the Fearrington Folk Art Show in Pittsboro. This eclectic event showcases folk art from a range of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and unique home décor. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply looking for something distinctive, this show offers a treasure trove of charming, handmade pieces.
Watch local artisans at work!
Mardi Gras Festival
March 1-2, 2025
Beaufort, NC (Coast)
Bring the fun of New Orleans to the coast at the Mardi Gras Festival in Beaufort. Enjoy Cajun cuisine, a masquerade ball, and a lively parade where costumed krewes toss beads to the crowd. With music, food, and festive flair, it’s a perfect way to experience Mardi Gras in the heart of North Carolina’s coastal beauty.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style!
Charleston Wine + Food Festival
March 5-9, 2025
Charleston, SC (Lowcountry)
Indulge in culinary delights at the Charleston Wine + Food Festival! Celebrating 20 years of gastronomic excellence, this festival brings together top chefs, winemakers, and artisans for a week of tastings, cooking demos, and cultural experiences. Explore the vibrant food scene of Charleston and savor the flavors of the Lowcountry.
Tea with Seagrove Potters
March 8, 2025
Seagrove, NC (Piedmont)
Spend a charming afternoon in Seagrove sipping tea with local potters. Learn about the town’s rich pottery traditions and explore the studios of talented artists. It’s an intimate experience that combines craftsmanship with Southern hospitality, perfect for art lovers and those interested in handmade, unique creations.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
March 15, 2025
Charlotte, NC (Piedmont)
Celebrate all things Irish at Charlotte’s St. Patrick’s Day Festival! The parade kicks off a day filled with Irish music, dance, food, and drinks. There’s a special Celtic Kids Zone, making it fun for the whole family. Don your green attire and enjoy the festive spirit in the heart of Charlotte!
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 15, 2025
North Myrtle Beach, SC (Pee Dee)
Get ready for a fun-filled day at North Myrtle Beach’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade! Watch colorful floats, lively bagpipers, and plenty of Irish cheer. Following the parade, enjoy food, drinks, and music in a celebration of all things Irish. It’s a perfect way to get into the festive spirit!
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 16, 2025
Hilton Head, SC (Lowcountry)
Join Hilton Head’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day Parade for a day of fun, featuring bagpipers, colorful floats, and festive cheers. Enjoy the island’s charm as it fills with Irish pride, making it the perfect way to celebrate the luck of the Irish in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.
